BMO Renews Toronto FC Jersey Sponsorship

- Toronto FC and BMO to provide more access to tickets for youth soccer groups

TORONTO, ONTARIO--(Marketwire - July 5, 2010) -

Editors Note: A photo is included with this press release.

BMO Financial Group (TSX:BMO)(NYSE:BMO) and Toronto FC today announced the renewal of BMO's sponsorship of the team's jersey. BMO's logo, which has been part of the popular Toronto FC jersey since the team began play in Major League Soccer in 2007, will be on the jersey until the conclusion of the 2016 season. The announcement was made at a special event attended by BMO employees at Maple Leaf Square's Real Sports Bar & Grill in Toronto.

"The phenomenon that is Toronto FC has grown by leaps and bounds, and the TFC jersey has become a fashion favourite in the GTA," said Sandy Bourne, Vice-President, Advertising, Sponsorship, Events and Merchandising, BMO Financial Group. "We're thrilled that BMO will be staying front and centre for soccer fans in Toronto and across North America."

The extended agreement will continue to see BMO's brand exclusively on all official team, retail and academy apparel. Toronto FC and BMO will work together to provide more access to tickets for youth soccer groups to attend matches at sold-out BMO Field.

Under the renewed agreement, BMO's popular Power of Blue customer loyalty program will return, giving BMO customers attending Toronto FC matches a dedicated stadium entrance.

"BMO has become synonymous with Toronto FC and their support of soccer at the grassroots level in Canada," said Tom Anselmi, executive vice-president and chief operating officer for Maple Leaf Sports & Entertainment. "BMO is a terrific partner for Toronto FC. It's a strong Canadian brand that resonates with our fans. We're excited about the extension of our relationship."

BMO, a founding partner with the club, is the Official Bank of Toronto FC and holds the naming rights for the team's home and Canada's National Soccer Stadium, BMO Field. BMO's brand is prominently featured both inside and outside Canada's national soccer stadium.

About BMO and Soccer

BMO supports soccer across Canada from youth players in local neighbourhoods and communities to the professional level. Our deep commitment to "The Beautiful Game" is evident from the beginning of the curve with our grassroots sponsorship of more than 500 youth teams nationally. The relationship continues with our sponsorship of the Canadian Soccer Association, including title support of elite youth players at the BMO National Championships.